[Bacterial vaginosis prophylaxis with a vaginal device releasing chlorhexidine. Preliminary study]

Assessment of clinical, microbiological and subjective postmenstrual data relating to bacterial vaginosis in patients using a vaginal device releasing chlorhexidine.

Twenty women with vaginosis signs and symptoms before menstruation were randomized to use vaginal tampons releasing chlorhexidine or neutral tampons (placebo). They were reassessed after menstruation.

After treatment there was improvement of symptoms referred, but not significant. Itching was particularly reduced after use of chlorhexidine tampon. Vaginal pH was reduced but not significantly in the treated group. Gram stain microscopy showed absence of normal vaginal microflora in all recruited patients. Frequency detection of Doderlein Lactobacilli and clue cells<20% at control time was significantly increased (70%) in patients exposed to the action of chlorhexidine when compared to placebo group (30%).

Therapy effectiveness is probably due to local anti-inflammatory and antiseptic chlorhexidine properties. Good patient compliance is an additional result in favor of the product. Data collected in this study are a preliminary result.